Harvey Carey calls it a career

Harvey Carey, one of the PBA's prime rebounders, is retiring after 17 seasons. PBA Images (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—One of TNT's modern day pillar has called it a career.

Harvey Carey, who has been with the Tropang Giga since being drafted to the PBA, is retiring after 17 seasons.

Gabby Cui, TNT's team manager, confirmed the development on Monday.

"We would like to thank Harvey for everything he has done for TNT Tropang Giga. He has been a consummate leader, proven winner, great teammate and an excellent basketball player," Cui said through a social media post.

Tagged as the "mystery man" of his draft class, the Tropang Giga selected Carey as the fourth overall pick of the 2003 draft.

Carey, along with fellow first round pick Jimmy Alapag, provided the needed help for then top guy Asi Taulava for the PLDT franchise as the club won its first regular championship, the 2003 Philippine Cup title.

Carey, although falling short to Alapag in the Rookie of the Year race, would be named into the Mythical Second Team of that same season.

Known as a defensive stalwart, Carey posted his best offensive performance during the 2007 season, scoring 11.4 points and 1.5 assist a game.

But his stopping prowess, although not reflected in the stats (7.6 rebounds, 0.4 steal, and 0.2 block a night), was too glaring enough that he was named to the All-Defensive Team of that year.

He would earn an All-Star call-up in 2011.

He is ending his career which netted him seven titles with averages of 6.9 points and 6.7 rebounds, eventually entering the 2,000 Defensive Rebounds and 1,000 Offensive Rebounds Clubs.

"For 19 years he has been the epitome of a true professional. We wish Harv well as he moves on with the new chapter in his life," Cui further said.

According to Tropang Giga governor and PBA board chairman Ricky Vargas, the 41-year-old Carey has opted to stay with his family in the United States.

Meanwhile, Cui added that Harvey can return to TNT on another capacity.

"Our doors will always be open to Harvey," Cui quipped.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno